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  • How lifestyle and health shape your dementia risk

    How lifestyle and health shape your dementia risk

    New RAND research identifies early predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia using a nationally representative U.S. dataset, highlighting the role of modifiable factors and baseline cognitive health in prevention and intervention strategies.

    Report: Identifying Early Predictors of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in a Large Nationally Representative U.S. Sample. Image Credit: Orawan Pattarawimonchai / ShutterstockReport: Identifying Early Predictors of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in a Large Nationally Representative U.S. Sample. Image Credit: Orawan Pattarawimonchai / Shutterstock

    A new report published by RAND, the nonprofit research organization, has identified early predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia (a progressive decline in cognitive abilities that interferes with daily functioning) using a large, nationally representative United States (U.S.) sample to enhance early diagnosis, prevention, and resource allocation strategies.

    Background

    Dementia is a leading cause of disability and dependency among older adults, imposing significant financial and emotional burdens on families and healthcare systems globally. Age is the strongest risk factor, but other determinants, including genetics, education, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle, also play critical roles. Recent studies suggest that modifiable factors, such as physical activity, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation, can influence the risk of cognitive decline. However, many existing prediction models lack precision and fail to incorporate sufficiently diverse datasets, limiting their effectiveness in early detection and intervention planning. Further research is essential to refine these models, particularly by enhancing generalizability through representative datasets and innovative methodologies.

    About the Report

    The report utilized data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a nationally representative, longitudinal survey of U.S. adults aged 50 and older, spanning from 1992 to 2016. Participants included individuals aged 65 and above who were dementia-free at baseline. Cognitive impairment and dementia were measured using a validated probabilistic model calibrated to clinical diagnoses from a subsample. This approach reduced classification errors, improved model accuracy, and minimized false-positive transitions between cognitive states.

    To predict dementia incidence and prevalence, 181 potential risk factors were analyzed and categorized into demographic, socioeconomic, psychosocial, lifestyle, health behaviors, and cognitive domains. Predictors included variables such as education, health status, physical and cognitive activities, and genetic markers. The report also emphasizes long-term prediction, using baseline data at age 60 to forecast dementia outcomes at age 80. Regression models estimated the relationship between these predictors and dementia outcomes, with separate models for two-year, four-year, and long-term predictions. Predictors were ranked based on their explanatory power using partial R-squared values.

    The analysis accounted for missing data through imputation or categorical inclusion, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Variables were selected based on their availability and relevance, with emphasis on modifiable factors. Statistical adjustments accounted for demographic and population-level disparities, such as differences in age, sampling weights, and SES indicators.

    Results

    The report used data from a nationally representative sample to identify several predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia. The analysis revealed that baseline cognitive ability, physical health, and functional limitations were among the most significant predictors. Among cognitive measures, delayed and immediate word recall, serial sevens, and self-reported memory showed the highest predictive power. These findings highlight the critical role of baseline cognitive function in identifying individuals at risk for cognitive decline.

    Health and functional limitations were also significant predictors. Poor self-reported health, limitations in instrumental and basic activities of daily living, and physical performance metrics, such as walking speed and balance, strongly correlated with higher dementia risk. Additionally, chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and high body mass index, substantially increase the likelihood of cognitive impairment.

    Socioeconomic status (SES) indicators, including education level, total years worked, and private health insurance coverage, demonstrated significant associations with dementia risk. Individuals with lower educational attainment and fewer years of work history faced a higher risk, emphasizing the potential long-term impact of SES on cognitive health. Lifestyle behaviors, such as regular physical activity and moderate alcohol consumption, were protective, while inactivity and excessive alcohol use were associated with increased risk.

    Demographic factors, including age, race, and geographic birth region, also contributed to the risk. Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic individuals exhibited higher dementia incidence, although these disparities diminished when controlling for SES and health factors. Birth in the southern US or abroad was linked to elevated risk, suggesting regional and environmental influences.

    Psychosocial factors provided additional insights. Engagement in hobbies, novel information activities, and social interactions correlated with a lower risk of dementia, as did traits such as conscientiousness and positive affect. Conversely, loneliness and high levels of negative affect were associated with increased risk. The long-term prediction models strongly emphasized cognitive and physical health factors, confirming their predictive power for outcomes measured two decades later.

    Conclusions

    The report identified key predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies that focus on modifiable risk factors. Cognitive measures such as word recall, self-reported memory, functional limitations, and physical health metrics emerged as significant contributors. Socioeconomic status, including education and work history, and lifestyle behaviors, such as physical activity, further influenced dementia risk. Demographic and psychosocial factors provided additional insights, highlighting the multifactorial nature of dementia risk.

    The findings suggest that targeted interventions, particularly those addressing physical and cognitive health, lifestyle behaviors, and SES disparities, could significantly reduce dementia prevalence. Policymakers are urged to consider evidence-based strategies to promote these protective measures.

    Source link

  • How lifestyle and health shape your dementia risk

    How lifestyle and health shape your dementia risk

    New RAND research identifies early predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia using a nationally representative U.S. dataset, highlighting the role of modifiable factors and baseline cognitive health in prevention and intervention strategies.

    Report: Identifying Early Predictors of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in a Large Nationally Representative U.S. Sample. Image Credit: Orawan Pattarawimonchai / ShutterstockReport: Identifying Early Predictors of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in a Large Nationally Representative U.S. Sample. Image Credit: Orawan Pattarawimonchai / Shutterstock

    A new report published by RAND, the nonprofit research organization, has identified early predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia (a progressive decline in cognitive abilities that interferes with daily functioning) using a large, nationally representative United States (U.S.) sample to enhance early diagnosis, prevention, and resource allocation strategies.

    Background

    Dementia is a leading cause of disability and dependency among older adults, imposing significant financial and emotional burdens on families and healthcare systems globally. Age is the strongest risk factor, but other determinants, including genetics, education, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle, also play critical roles. Recent studies suggest that modifiable factors, such as physical activity, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation, can influence the risk of cognitive decline. However, many existing prediction models lack precision and fail to incorporate sufficiently diverse datasets, limiting their effectiveness in early detection and intervention planning. Further research is essential to refine these models, particularly by enhancing generalizability through representative datasets and innovative methodologies.

    About the Report

    The report utilized data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a nationally representative, longitudinal survey of U.S. adults aged 50 and older, spanning from 1992 to 2016. Participants included individuals aged 65 and above who were dementia-free at baseline. Cognitive impairment and dementia were measured using a validated probabilistic model calibrated to clinical diagnoses from a subsample. This approach reduced classification errors, improved model accuracy, and minimized false-positive transitions between cognitive states.

    To predict dementia incidence and prevalence, 181 potential risk factors were analyzed and categorized into demographic, socioeconomic, psychosocial, lifestyle, health behaviors, and cognitive domains. Predictors included variables such as education, health status, physical and cognitive activities, and genetic markers. The report also emphasizes long-term prediction, using baseline data at age 60 to forecast dementia outcomes at age 80. Regression models estimated the relationship between these predictors and dementia outcomes, with separate models for two-year, four-year, and long-term predictions. Predictors were ranked based on their explanatory power using partial R-squared values.

    The analysis accounted for missing data through imputation or categorical inclusion, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Variables were selected based on their availability and relevance, with emphasis on modifiable factors. Statistical adjustments accounted for demographic and population-level disparities, such as differences in age, sampling weights, and SES indicators.

    Results

    The report used data from a nationally representative sample to identify several predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia. The analysis revealed that baseline cognitive ability, physical health, and functional limitations were among the most significant predictors. Among cognitive measures, delayed and immediate word recall, serial sevens, and self-reported memory showed the highest predictive power. These findings highlight the critical role of baseline cognitive function in identifying individuals at risk for cognitive decline.

    Health and functional limitations were also significant predictors. Poor self-reported health, limitations in instrumental and basic activities of daily living, and physical performance metrics, such as walking speed and balance, strongly correlated with higher dementia risk. Additionally, chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and high body mass index, substantially increase the likelihood of cognitive impairment.

    Socioeconomic status (SES) indicators, including education level, total years worked, and private health insurance coverage, demonstrated significant associations with dementia risk. Individuals with lower educational attainment and fewer years of work history faced a higher risk, emphasizing the potential long-term impact of SES on cognitive health. Lifestyle behaviors, such as regular physical activity and moderate alcohol consumption, were protective, while inactivity and excessive alcohol use were associated with increased risk.

    Demographic factors, including age, race, and geographic birth region, also contributed to the risk. Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic individuals exhibited higher dementia incidence, although these disparities diminished when controlling for SES and health factors. Birth in the southern US or abroad was linked to elevated risk, suggesting regional and environmental influences.

    Psychosocial factors provided additional insights. Engagement in hobbies, novel information activities, and social interactions correlated with a lower risk of dementia, as did traits such as conscientiousness and positive affect. Conversely, loneliness and high levels of negative affect were associated with increased risk. The long-term prediction models strongly emphasized cognitive and physical health factors, confirming their predictive power for outcomes measured two decades later.

    Conclusions

    The report identified key predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies that focus on modifiable risk factors. Cognitive measures such as word recall, self-reported memory, functional limitations, and physical health metrics emerged as significant contributors. Socioeconomic status, including education and work history, and lifestyle behaviors, such as physical activity, further influenced dementia risk. Demographic and psychosocial factors provided additional insights, highlighting the multifactorial nature of dementia risk.

    The findings suggest that targeted interventions, particularly those addressing physical and cognitive health, lifestyle behaviors, and SES disparities, could significantly reduce dementia prevalence. Policymakers are urged to consider evidence-based strategies to promote these protective measures.

    Source link

  • How lifestyle and health shape your dementia risk

    How lifestyle and health shape your dementia risk

    New RAND research identifies early predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia using a nationally representative U.S. dataset, highlighting the role of modifiable factors and baseline cognitive health in prevention and intervention strategies.

    Report: Identifying Early Predictors of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in a Large Nationally Representative U.S. Sample. Image Credit: Orawan Pattarawimonchai / ShutterstockReport: Identifying Early Predictors of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in a Large Nationally Representative U.S. Sample. Image Credit: Orawan Pattarawimonchai / Shutterstock

    A new report published by RAND, the nonprofit research organization, has identified early predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia (a progressive decline in cognitive abilities that interferes with daily functioning) using a large, nationally representative United States (U.S.) sample to enhance early diagnosis, prevention, and resource allocation strategies.

    Background

    Dementia is a leading cause of disability and dependency among older adults, imposing significant financial and emotional burdens on families and healthcare systems globally. Age is the strongest risk factor, but other determinants, including genetics, education, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle, also play critical roles. Recent studies suggest that modifiable factors, such as physical activity, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation, can influence the risk of cognitive decline. However, many existing prediction models lack precision and fail to incorporate sufficiently diverse datasets, limiting their effectiveness in early detection and intervention planning. Further research is essential to refine these models, particularly by enhancing generalizability through representative datasets and innovative methodologies.

    About the Report

    The report utilized data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a nationally representative, longitudinal survey of U.S. adults aged 50 and older, spanning from 1992 to 2016. Participants included individuals aged 65 and above who were dementia-free at baseline. Cognitive impairment and dementia were measured using a validated probabilistic model calibrated to clinical diagnoses from a subsample. This approach reduced classification errors, improved model accuracy, and minimized false-positive transitions between cognitive states.

    To predict dementia incidence and prevalence, 181 potential risk factors were analyzed and categorized into demographic, socioeconomic, psychosocial, lifestyle, health behaviors, and cognitive domains. Predictors included variables such as education, health status, physical and cognitive activities, and genetic markers. The report also emphasizes long-term prediction, using baseline data at age 60 to forecast dementia outcomes at age 80. Regression models estimated the relationship between these predictors and dementia outcomes, with separate models for two-year, four-year, and long-term predictions. Predictors were ranked based on their explanatory power using partial R-squared values.

    The analysis accounted for missing data through imputation or categorical inclusion, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Variables were selected based on their availability and relevance, with emphasis on modifiable factors. Statistical adjustments accounted for demographic and population-level disparities, such as differences in age, sampling weights, and SES indicators.

    Results

    The report used data from a nationally representative sample to identify several predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia. The analysis revealed that baseline cognitive ability, physical health, and functional limitations were among the most significant predictors. Among cognitive measures, delayed and immediate word recall, serial sevens, and self-reported memory showed the highest predictive power. These findings highlight the critical role of baseline cognitive function in identifying individuals at risk for cognitive decline.

    Health and functional limitations were also significant predictors. Poor self-reported health, limitations in instrumental and basic activities of daily living, and physical performance metrics, such as walking speed and balance, strongly correlated with higher dementia risk. Additionally, chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and high body mass index, substantially increase the likelihood of cognitive impairment.

    Socioeconomic status (SES) indicators, including education level, total years worked, and private health insurance coverage, demonstrated significant associations with dementia risk. Individuals with lower educational attainment and fewer years of work history faced a higher risk, emphasizing the potential long-term impact of SES on cognitive health. Lifestyle behaviors, such as regular physical activity and moderate alcohol consumption, were protective, while inactivity and excessive alcohol use were associated with increased risk.

    Demographic factors, including age, race, and geographic birth region, also contributed to the risk. Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic individuals exhibited higher dementia incidence, although these disparities diminished when controlling for SES and health factors. Birth in the southern US or abroad was linked to elevated risk, suggesting regional and environmental influences.

    Psychosocial factors provided additional insights. Engagement in hobbies, novel information activities, and social interactions correlated with a lower risk of dementia, as did traits such as conscientiousness and positive affect. Conversely, loneliness and high levels of negative affect were associated with increased risk. The long-term prediction models strongly emphasized cognitive and physical health factors, confirming their predictive power for outcomes measured two decades later.

    Conclusions

    The report identified key predictors of cognitive impairment and dementia, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies that focus on modifiable risk factors. Cognitive measures such as word recall, self-reported memory, functional limitations, and physical health metrics emerged as significant contributors. Socioeconomic status, including education and work history, and lifestyle behaviors, such as physical activity, further influenced dementia risk. Demographic and psychosocial factors provided additional insights, highlighting the multifactorial nature of dementia risk.

    The findings suggest that targeted interventions, particularly those addressing physical and cognitive health, lifestyle behaviors, and SES disparities, could significantly reduce dementia prevalence. Policymakers are urged to consider evidence-based strategies to promote these protective measures.

    Source link

  • What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    While it’s renowned for its beaches, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has much more to offer, locals say, including a great climate, a welcoming community and easy access to important amenities.

    Climate for year-round outdoor living

    The mild winters, long summers and abundant clear days draw many to the Sunshine Coast, including the Clark family, who moved here from Torquay – a seaside town at the start of the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.

    “We love the beach, love surfing – and that’s what Torquay has. The Sunny Coast is exactly like it, but the climate is a million times better,” says Michael Clark, a mining company project manager who relocated with his wife and three children seven years ago.

    “The coastal aspect, the hinterland – everything around here is stunning. And we can be outdoors pretty much 365 days a year.”

    The climate definitely drives interstate migration to the area, says Sam Gardner, managing director of Gardner Vaughan Group, the developer responsible for Bask Bokarina.

    Bask Bokarina is positioned enviably close to the beach. Artist’s impression.

    Situated in Bokarina, a peaceful seaside suburb between the south-east Queensland coastal hubs of Mooloolaba and Caloundra, Bask Bokarina offers 135 spacious, beautifully appointed apartments in multiple styles over seven levels. 

    “The Sunshine Coast is increasingly recognised as a lifestyle destination,” Gardner says. “It appeals to downsizers and tourists, and people have realised they can situate their families here to live and work.

    “We’ve seen buyers come from Sydney and Melbourne who appreciate the warmer months and they’re spending more time in the water throughout the year. They’re just saying they wish they’d done it sooner.”     

    Idyllic playground for hobbies

    The weather lends itself to low-maintenance living and makes the Sunshine Coast a great place to follow your interests, says Kae Bullock, who retired to the area after selling her Gold Coast-based business.

    She is now a member of a local Probus club. Along with cruises, lawn bowls and mini golf, the group often has lunch or dinner at one of the hundreds of cafes and restaurants on the coast. They also take bus trips to the hinterland and surrounding areas.

    An aerial view of Bokarina, Lake Kawana and the surrounding hinterland. Photo: Cartelux

    The community is very welcoming, Bullock says, and she “instantly gained a wonderful group of friends” at Probus.

    Clark says his family slotted into the community through sport. His kids take part in surfing, netball, soccer and Aussie rules football, and he coaches an Aussie rules team.

    Bokarina has great parks, walking tracks and waterways, he adds, and “on weekends, we’re out walking our dog or taking the kids for a bike ride – it’s really scenic and beautiful”.

    Despite being packed with activities, the area is still peaceful, Clark says.

    “We’re pretty isolated from the tourists during the holiday season,” he says. “When we go to the supermarket, we don’t have to worry about crowds.”

    Gardner says the area appeals to people wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.

    “Bokarina has a nice boutique beachside feel about it,” he says. “That’s one reason why our buyers love the Sunshine Coast. It’s more relaxed – they’re in their own little haven without being disconnected from infrastructure.”

    The pool is one of a long list of amenities available to residents at Bask Bokarina. Artist’s impression.

    Bask Bokarina offers “a community within a community”,  he adds, with facilities like a vegetable garden and shared relaxation spaces with pergolas, day beds and barbecues.

    “But the key aspect has to be the percentage of green space paired with the proximity to the beach, all tied in with that connectivity,” Gardner says. “The design capitalises on the natural surroundings and the facilities offer our residents a great lifestyle experience.”

    Bask Bokarina is within strolling distance of the ocean, with on-site walking paths, playgrounds and parklands. Lake Kawana is a stone’s throw away for water-based pursuits like kayaking. The picturesque Glasshouse Mountains, popular with bushwalkers and climbers, are about a 30-minute drive away.

    Convenience and key amenities

    Bokarina has easy access to schools, shops and the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. 

    “We don’t really leave this area much because everything’s nearby,” says Clark, who commutes to Brisbane twice per week for work. “A big thing for me is, it’s really easy to get to the freeway.” 

    Getting around the Sunshine Coast is also easy, Bullock says.

    “It takes 35 minutes to get anywhere,” she says. “And I don’t have the stress of knowing I’ve got to battle traffic.”

    The coastal location inspired the interiors of Bask Bokarina which are fitted with neutral sandy tone. Artist’s impression.

    Gardner Vaughan Group strategically selects premium lifestyle locations for its developments, and, according to Gardner, “Bokarina fits this criteria perfectly”.

    “Our buyers are attracted by the proximity of education and healthcare facilities, arterial roads and the Sunshine Coast airport,” he says.

    “They’re all draw cards that make Bokarina an A-grade location.”

    Bask Bokarina

    Shop 6/42 Bokarina Boulevard, Bokarina, QLD 4575

    View property

    Source link

  • What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    While it’s renowned for its beaches, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has much more to offer, locals say, including a great climate, a welcoming community and easy access to important amenities.

    Climate for year-round outdoor living

    The mild winters, long summers and abundant clear days draw many to the Sunshine Coast, including the Clark family, who moved here from Torquay – a seaside town at the start of the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.

    “We love the beach, love surfing – and that’s what Torquay has. The Sunny Coast is exactly like it, but the climate is a million times better,” says Michael Clark, a mining company project manager who relocated with his wife and three children seven years ago.

    “The coastal aspect, the hinterland – everything around here is stunning. And we can be outdoors pretty much 365 days a year.”

    The climate definitely drives interstate migration to the area, says Sam Gardner, managing director of Gardner Vaughan Group, the developer responsible for Bask Bokarina.

    Bask Bokarina is positioned enviably close to the beach. Artist’s impression.

    Situated in Bokarina, a peaceful seaside suburb between the south-east Queensland coastal hubs of Mooloolaba and Caloundra, Bask Bokarina offers 135 spacious, beautifully appointed apartments in multiple styles over seven levels. 

    “The Sunshine Coast is increasingly recognised as a lifestyle destination,” Gardner says. “It appeals to downsizers and tourists, and people have realised they can situate their families here to live and work.

    “We’ve seen buyers come from Sydney and Melbourne who appreciate the warmer months and they’re spending more time in the water throughout the year. They’re just saying they wish they’d done it sooner.”     

    Idyllic playground for hobbies

    The weather lends itself to low-maintenance living and makes the Sunshine Coast a great place to follow your interests, says Kae Bullock, who retired to the area after selling her Gold Coast-based business.

    She is now a member of a local Probus club. Along with cruises, lawn bowls and mini golf, the group often has lunch or dinner at one of the hundreds of cafes and restaurants on the coast. They also take bus trips to the hinterland and surrounding areas.

    An aerial view of Bokarina, Lake Kawana and the surrounding hinterland. Photo: Cartelux

    The community is very welcoming, Bullock says, and she “instantly gained a wonderful group of friends” at Probus.

    Clark says his family slotted into the community through sport. His kids take part in surfing, netball, soccer and Aussie rules football, and he coaches an Aussie rules team.

    Bokarina has great parks, walking tracks and waterways, he adds, and “on weekends, we’re out walking our dog or taking the kids for a bike ride – it’s really scenic and beautiful”.

    Despite being packed with activities, the area is still peaceful, Clark says.

    “We’re pretty isolated from the tourists during the holiday season,” he says. “When we go to the supermarket, we don’t have to worry about crowds.”

    Gardner says the area appeals to people wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.

    “Bokarina has a nice boutique beachside feel about it,” he says. “That’s one reason why our buyers love the Sunshine Coast. It’s more relaxed – they’re in their own little haven without being disconnected from infrastructure.”

    The pool is one of a long list of amenities available to residents at Bask Bokarina. Artist’s impression.

    Bask Bokarina offers “a community within a community”,  he adds, with facilities like a vegetable garden and shared relaxation spaces with pergolas, day beds and barbecues.

    “But the key aspect has to be the percentage of green space paired with the proximity to the beach, all tied in with that connectivity,” Gardner says. “The design capitalises on the natural surroundings and the facilities offer our residents a great lifestyle experience.”

    Bask Bokarina is within strolling distance of the ocean, with on-site walking paths, playgrounds and parklands. Lake Kawana is a stone’s throw away for water-based pursuits like kayaking. The picturesque Glasshouse Mountains, popular with bushwalkers and climbers, are about a 30-minute drive away.

    Convenience and key amenities

    Bokarina has easy access to schools, shops and the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. 

    “We don’t really leave this area much because everything’s nearby,” says Clark, who commutes to Brisbane twice per week for work. “A big thing for me is, it’s really easy to get to the freeway.” 

    Getting around the Sunshine Coast is also easy, Bullock says.

    “It takes 35 minutes to get anywhere,” she says. “And I don’t have the stress of knowing I’ve got to battle traffic.”

    The coastal location inspired the interiors of Bask Bokarina which are fitted with neutral sandy tone. Artist’s impression.

    Gardner Vaughan Group strategically selects premium lifestyle locations for its developments, and, according to Gardner, “Bokarina fits this criteria perfectly”.

    “Our buyers are attracted by the proximity of education and healthcare facilities, arterial roads and the Sunshine Coast airport,” he says.

    “They’re all draw cards that make Bokarina an A-grade location.”

    Bask Bokarina

    Shop 6/42 Bokarina Boulevard, Bokarina, QLD 4575

    View property

    Source link

  • What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    While it’s renowned for its beaches, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has much more to offer, locals say, including a great climate, a welcoming community and easy access to important amenities.

    Climate for year-round outdoor living

    The mild winters, long summers and abundant clear days draw many to the Sunshine Coast, including the Clark family, who moved here from Torquay – a seaside town at the start of the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.

    “We love the beach, love surfing – and that’s what Torquay has. The Sunny Coast is exactly like it, but the climate is a million times better,” says Michael Clark, a mining company project manager who relocated with his wife and three children seven years ago.

    “The coastal aspect, the hinterland – everything around here is stunning. And we can be outdoors pretty much 365 days a year.”

    The climate definitely drives interstate migration to the area, says Sam Gardner, managing director of Gardner Vaughan Group, the developer responsible for Bask Bokarina.

    Bask Bokarina is positioned enviably close to the beach. Artist’s impression.

    Situated in Bokarina, a peaceful seaside suburb between the south-east Queensland coastal hubs of Mooloolaba and Caloundra, Bask Bokarina offers 135 spacious, beautifully appointed apartments in multiple styles over seven levels. 

    “The Sunshine Coast is increasingly recognised as a lifestyle destination,” Gardner says. “It appeals to downsizers and tourists, and people have realised they can situate their families here to live and work.

    “We’ve seen buyers come from Sydney and Melbourne who appreciate the warmer months and they’re spending more time in the water throughout the year. They’re just saying they wish they’d done it sooner.”     

    Idyllic playground for hobbies

    The weather lends itself to low-maintenance living and makes the Sunshine Coast a great place to follow your interests, says Kae Bullock, who retired to the area after selling her Gold Coast-based business.

    She is now a member of a local Probus club. Along with cruises, lawn bowls and mini golf, the group often has lunch or dinner at one of the hundreds of cafes and restaurants on the coast. They also take bus trips to the hinterland and surrounding areas.

    An aerial view of Bokarina, Lake Kawana and the surrounding hinterland. Photo: Cartelux

    The community is very welcoming, Bullock says, and she “instantly gained a wonderful group of friends” at Probus.

    Clark says his family slotted into the community through sport. His kids take part in surfing, netball, soccer and Aussie rules football, and he coaches an Aussie rules team.

    Bokarina has great parks, walking tracks and waterways, he adds, and “on weekends, we’re out walking our dog or taking the kids for a bike ride – it’s really scenic and beautiful”.

    Despite being packed with activities, the area is still peaceful, Clark says.

    “We’re pretty isolated from the tourists during the holiday season,” he says. “When we go to the supermarket, we don’t have to worry about crowds.”

    Gardner says the area appeals to people wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.

    “Bokarina has a nice boutique beachside feel about it,” he says. “That’s one reason why our buyers love the Sunshine Coast. It’s more relaxed – they’re in their own little haven without being disconnected from infrastructure.”

    The pool is one of a long list of amenities available to residents at Bask Bokarina. Artist’s impression.

    Bask Bokarina offers “a community within a community”,  he adds, with facilities like a vegetable garden and shared relaxation spaces with pergolas, day beds and barbecues.

    “But the key aspect has to be the percentage of green space paired with the proximity to the beach, all tied in with that connectivity,” Gardner says. “The design capitalises on the natural surroundings and the facilities offer our residents a great lifestyle experience.”

    Bask Bokarina is within strolling distance of the ocean, with on-site walking paths, playgrounds and parklands. Lake Kawana is a stone’s throw away for water-based pursuits like kayaking. The picturesque Glasshouse Mountains, popular with bushwalkers and climbers, are about a 30-minute drive away.

    Convenience and key amenities

    Bokarina has easy access to schools, shops and the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. 

    “We don’t really leave this area much because everything’s nearby,” says Clark, who commutes to Brisbane twice per week for work. “A big thing for me is, it’s really easy to get to the freeway.” 

    Getting around the Sunshine Coast is also easy, Bullock says.

    “It takes 35 minutes to get anywhere,” she says. “And I don’t have the stress of knowing I’ve got to battle traffic.”

    The coastal location inspired the interiors of Bask Bokarina which are fitted with neutral sandy tone. Artist’s impression.

    Gardner Vaughan Group strategically selects premium lifestyle locations for its developments, and, according to Gardner, “Bokarina fits this criteria perfectly”.

    “Our buyers are attracted by the proximity of education and healthcare facilities, arterial roads and the Sunshine Coast airport,” he says.

    “They’re all draw cards that make Bokarina an A-grade location.”

    Bask Bokarina

    Shop 6/42 Bokarina Boulevard, Bokarina, QLD 4575

    View property

    Source link

  • What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    While it’s renowned for its beaches, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has much more to offer, locals say, including a great climate, a welcoming community and easy access to important amenities.

    Climate for year-round outdoor living

    The mild winters, long summers and abundant clear days draw many to the Sunshine Coast, including the Clark family, who moved here from Torquay – a seaside town at the start of the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.

    “We love the beach, love surfing – and that’s what Torquay has. The Sunny Coast is exactly like it, but the climate is a million times better,” says Michael Clark, a mining company project manager who relocated with his wife and three children seven years ago.

    “The coastal aspect, the hinterland – everything around here is stunning. And we can be outdoors pretty much 365 days a year.”

    The climate definitely drives interstate migration to the area, says Sam Gardner, managing director of Gardner Vaughan Group, the developer responsible for Bask Bokarina.

    Bask Bokarina is positioned enviably close to the beach. Artist’s impression.

    Situated in Bokarina, a peaceful seaside suburb between the south-east Queensland coastal hubs of Mooloolaba and Caloundra, Bask Bokarina offers 135 spacious, beautifully appointed apartments in multiple styles over seven levels. 

    “The Sunshine Coast is increasingly recognised as a lifestyle destination,” Gardner says. “It appeals to downsizers and tourists, and people have realised they can situate their families here to live and work.

    “We’ve seen buyers come from Sydney and Melbourne who appreciate the warmer months and they’re spending more time in the water throughout the year. They’re just saying they wish they’d done it sooner.”     

    Idyllic playground for hobbies

    The weather lends itself to low-maintenance living and makes the Sunshine Coast a great place to follow your interests, says Kae Bullock, who retired to the area after selling her Gold Coast-based business.

    She is now a member of a local Probus club. Along with cruises, lawn bowls and mini golf, the group often has lunch or dinner at one of the hundreds of cafes and restaurants on the coast. They also take bus trips to the hinterland and surrounding areas.

    An aerial view of Bokarina, Lake Kawana and the surrounding hinterland. Photo: Cartelux

    The community is very welcoming, Bullock says, and she “instantly gained a wonderful group of friends” at Probus.

    Clark says his family slotted into the community through sport. His kids take part in surfing, netball, soccer and Aussie rules football, and he coaches an Aussie rules team.

    Bokarina has great parks, walking tracks and waterways, he adds, and “on weekends, we’re out walking our dog or taking the kids for a bike ride – it’s really scenic and beautiful”.

    Despite being packed with activities, the area is still peaceful, Clark says.

    “We’re pretty isolated from the tourists during the holiday season,” he says. “When we go to the supermarket, we don’t have to worry about crowds.”

    Gardner says the area appeals to people wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.

    “Bokarina has a nice boutique beachside feel about it,” he says. “That’s one reason why our buyers love the Sunshine Coast. It’s more relaxed – they’re in their own little haven without being disconnected from infrastructure.”

    The pool is one of a long list of amenities available to residents at Bask Bokarina. Artist’s impression.

    Bask Bokarina offers “a community within a community”,  he adds, with facilities like a vegetable garden and shared relaxation spaces with pergolas, day beds and barbecues.

    “But the key aspect has to be the percentage of green space paired with the proximity to the beach, all tied in with that connectivity,” Gardner says. “The design capitalises on the natural surroundings and the facilities offer our residents a great lifestyle experience.”

    Bask Bokarina is within strolling distance of the ocean, with on-site walking paths, playgrounds and parklands. Lake Kawana is a stone’s throw away for water-based pursuits like kayaking. The picturesque Glasshouse Mountains, popular with bushwalkers and climbers, are about a 30-minute drive away.

    Convenience and key amenities

    Bokarina has easy access to schools, shops and the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. 

    “We don’t really leave this area much because everything’s nearby,” says Clark, who commutes to Brisbane twice per week for work. “A big thing for me is, it’s really easy to get to the freeway.” 

    Getting around the Sunshine Coast is also easy, Bullock says.

    “It takes 35 minutes to get anywhere,” she says. “And I don’t have the stress of knowing I’ve got to battle traffic.”

    The coastal location inspired the interiors of Bask Bokarina which are fitted with neutral sandy tone. Artist’s impression.

    Gardner Vaughan Group strategically selects premium lifestyle locations for its developments, and, according to Gardner, “Bokarina fits this criteria perfectly”.

    “Our buyers are attracted by the proximity of education and healthcare facilities, arterial roads and the Sunshine Coast airport,” he says.

    “They’re all draw cards that make Bokarina an A-grade location.”

    Bask Bokarina

    Shop 6/42 Bokarina Boulevard, Bokarina, QLD 4575

    View property

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  • I want to cut my mother-in-law out of our lives. Her lifestyle offends me.

    I want to cut my mother-in-law out of our lives. Her lifestyle offends me.

    Pay Dirt is Slate’s money advice column. Have a question? Send it to Athena, Kristin, and Ilyce here. (It’s anonymous!)

    Dear Pay Dirt,

    My mother-in-law spent my husband’s inheritance when my father-in-law died. She retired when he died at the age of 53. Now, she lives off disability, her Social Security, his Social Security, and she lives lavishly. She buys 40 Stanley cups and orders every meal out. She constantly complains about how unfair her life is. I want to cut ties with her because we’re struggling to afford our lives with one child and six figures of student loan debt. Her lifestyle just makes me despise her. Is her lifestyle reason enough for me to resent her? Does she “owe” us anything at all? Should I just grow up and move on so she can have a relationship with her granddaughter?

    —Resentful Daughter-in-Law

    Dear Resentful Daughter-in-Law,

    Your husband’s inheritance? Let’s start there. Unless your late father-in-law specifically left your husband money in his will or in a trust and his mother took it and spent it, it wasn’t his inheritance. It was hers.

    Nowhere in your letter do you express any sympathy or empathy for what your mother-in-law has gone through. She was widowed young, finished raising her family, and decided to focus on that rather than continuing to work. What does “living lavishly” really mean? How much do you actually know about her finances? You typically won’t get Social Security disability income and regular Social Security, and she won’t get her Social Security and her late husband’s. You have to choose.

    My guess is that she’s living just at or beyond her means, on her late husband’s Social Security and maybe some disability insurance she had. It’s hardly a lavish lifestyle, no matter how many Stanley cups you buy. I wonder if she’s managing to pay off credit card debt and what’s left of her mortgage each month. Probably not. She complains about her life because it’s hard to be widowed, raise a family as a single parent without endless resources, and be disabled. I doubt it’s the life she imagined living.

    Now, let’s talk about you. No, your mother-in-law doesn’t owe you anything except respect. She doesn’t even have to love you, but if she wants to have a relationship with her son, you, and her grandchild, she needs to be civil and kind. You need to be civil, kind, and a bit more empathetic in return. She certainly doesn’t owe you anything monetarily. And, yes, I’d suggest you grow up enough to recognize that you and your husband are responsible for paying for your own lives.

    So, decide you’re going to take charge of your finances. If you have a huge amount of student loans, make a plan to pay it off. Take a second job or find a way to cut your expenses. Stop wallowing in your resentment. If you change your attitude and make up your mind to move forward in a different direction, you’ll likely find that everything in your life gets better.

    Please keep questions short (<150 words), and don‘t submit the same question to multiple columns. We are unable to edit or remove questions after publication. Use pseudonyms to maintain anonymity. Your submission may be used in other Slate advice columns and may be edited for publication.

    Dear Pay Dirt,

    I think it’s time to leave my job. I’m a 30-year-old woman who’s been struggling with an autoimmune disease for three to four years. I have a diagnosis, but the many treatments I’ve tried aren’t helping much, and I have a lot of unresolved and unexplained issues besides my primary diagnosis. The pain and fatigue are disabling. I stopped working full-time about two years ago, and was recently asked/told to come back full-time or to leave. Fortunately, I’m already approved by our company’s long-term disability policy and will have a (small portion) of my former salary when I do leave. The policy has made up for some of my missing wages and should continue to pay out when I stop working.

    But this feels like an insane choice in 2024. I used to love my job. I traveled for work. I had special skills and qualifications. It was a little more than an “answer some emails and go to a Zoom meeting” kind of cushy desk job. But everything came naturally to me and I used to be very good at what I did. I just can’t do it anymore. Or do much at all. I’m too tired and in too much pain right now. I hope I’ll find the right medications one day and get back to some semblance of my former self. I’d like to go back to school and/or resume work in another position eventually. But I’m afraid of what the job market will look like in the next two, five, or 10 years. And my disability policy will keep my wages fairly stagnant. I should live a normal life span with my illness, and can’t imagine what the next 45-plus years look like anymore.

    Am I doing the right thing? (As if I have a choice at this point?) Am I blowing up my financial and career future? Do you have any advice for a situation like mine? I have seen a counselor, and am basically OK with the actual quitting. It’s everything that comes after that worries me.

    —Daunted By Disability

    Dear Daunted by Disability,

    I’m sorry your illness has been so devastating. While you’re about to make a decision that will have life-changing (and possibly life-long) consequences for your career, you’re also deciding to prioritize your health. Without that, you’ve got nothing.

    So while you’re mourning the amazing, resourceful, productive, briefcase-toting, airport-hopping person you used to be, remind yourself that focusing on your health is the right thing to do. I think you’re clinging to your job because in this strange new world you’re now inhabiting, it’s familiar. You used to be great at it. And, I think it’s a part of yourself you really loved. You’ll get there again. Let go of the idea that the job market won’t support you when you’re feeling better. There’s always room somewhere for smart people who are innovative, creative, and willing to work hard.

    But it’s not where you’re at today, mentally or physically. Be grateful to your employer for supporting your journey to better health and offer to help them in any way you can going forward. Maybe they’ll be interested in some part-time consulting work. Maybe not. Either way, be gracious on the way out and stay in touch with people who you can put down as references or reach out to about job openings down the line.

    None of us can tell the future. But whatever your journey looks like from here, it starts with you regaining control of your health. Take care, and let me know how it goes.

    Want more Pay Dirt every week? Slate Plus members get an additional column each week. Sign up for Slate Plus now.

    Dear Pay Dirt,

    I’m worried about my friend’s betting habits. Over the past year, he has really fallen down the betting rabbit hole. He mostly bets on various sports. At first, it all seemed pretty harmless. But now he brings it up every week and is placing new bets constantly. I don’t exactly know how much money he’s blowing on it, but it has to be more than several hundred. He works at a retail store! It’s not like he has a ton of extra cash to blow. A few of the other guys in our friend group agree that it’s concerning. But we’re just not sure how to broach the subject. It’s his money after all, but we like to look out for each other. Is there a way to politely butt in?

    —Betting On It

    Dear Betting On It,

    The next time he brings up his latest bet, try this: “Hey, friend. Bob, Larry, and I are wondering what’s going on with all these bets you’re making. What’s up with that?”

    Then, listen. Try to get a sense if he’s placing an odd bet here or there but is immersed in the sports statistics side of it (which would explain why he talks about it all the time) or if he’s actually betting the hundreds of dollars you suspect he doesn’t have. Does he boast about winning or seem distressed about losses? Is he super defensive about it? All of these could be red flags that his betting is truly out of control.

    According to Mayo Clinic, chasing your losses to get back to even is often a sign of a gambling addiction. Gambling when “feeling distressed, helpless, guilty, anxious or depressed” is also worrying. If you jeopardize or lose a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity because of gambling, you’re also likely in over your head. So listen for whether he’s struggling in other areas of his life, too—and be there for him however you can.

    If your friend recognizes that he has a problem and is willing to admit it, or even says that he has gone too far from time to time, you might suggest he contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER), which is operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling. It operates call, text, and chat services 24/7/365 and serves as a one-stop hub connecting people looking for assistance with a gambling problem to local resources. This network includes 28 contact centers which cover all 50 states and the U.S. territories. You’re a good pal to care. I hope he recognizes that and if he needs it, gets help.

    —Ilyce

    Classic Prudie

    My boss calls me Elaine. My name is Eileen. He doesn’t catch it himself, but whenever I or someone else corrects him, he quickly apologizes and gets it right… until the next time we speak.



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  • Find Out the Best Time of Day to Exercise for Your Lifestyle

    Find Out the Best Time of Day to Exercise for Your Lifestyle

    Getting a good workout in several times a week is great for your health, but when is the best time to exercise? Some people love to start their day with a morning workout, while others prefer getting their workout in at nighttime. You will hear conflicting information on whether one is better than the other, but does it actually matter when you work out?

    Regardless of when you find the time to exercise, regularly engaging in physical activity can improve your heart health, make you stronger and even boost your endurance.

    Some research has shown that exercising during specific times can affect the outcome of your workout in different ways. Below is a breakdown on what the research suggests about the time of day you choose to exercise.

    Person tying their shoe. An exercise ball and two small dumbbells are nearby.

    The best time of day to exercise is whenever you can do so consistently.

    Getty Images

    The best time to exercise is whenever you can 

    CNET Health Tips logo


    From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated.

    Let’s get this out of the way first: The best time to work out is whenever you can. We don’t all have schedules that allow for a 90-minute workout, green smoothies with collagen and a 20-minute session with a Theragun, unfortunately. 

    If your only time of day to exercise is before work, then morning is best. If you reserve physical activity for packed evenings, there’s a good chance you won’t ever get to it. 

    Likewise, if you can only fit 20 minutes of exercise into your day right before you get ready for bed, that’s the best time to work out. 

    I want to add a note on consistency: The best time to exercise is whenever you can, but the absolute best time of day to exercise is the time you can stick with for days, weeks and months.

    For example, if you’re the person who only has 20 minutes at night, but you keep finding yourself skipping it, ask yourself if there’s a way you can fit it into your morning instead. Perhaps you go to bed 20 minutes earlier and wake up 20 minutes earlier — now you’re still getting in your 20 minutes of exercise; it’s just shifted your schedule a tad. 

    The fact of the matter is that people who exercise consistently see better weight loss and fitness results in the long term. Research also suggests that your body can adapt to regular training schedules, so if you work out every morning, you will probably get a lot better at working out in the morning, and the same goes for nighttime workouts.

    That all said, morning workouts and night workouts both have their advantages and disadvantages as evidenced by decades of scientific research — let’s discuss.

    Two people run across the street in an urban area

    Thomas Barwick/Getty Images

    From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated.

    Benefits of working out in the morning

    Morning workouts truly do have an edge, according to multiple research studies, and offer a list of benefits that might even sway some night owls to get their fitness on in the morning. 

    Can help you establish a fitness routine: People who exercise in the morning are often more consistent simply because morning workouts leave less room for excuses. If you work out first thing in the morning, you can’t skip it in the evening because duties pile up. 

    May improve your sleep cycle: Waking up early might be difficult at first, but research suggests that a morning exercise habit can shift your circadian rhythm so that your body is naturally more alert in the morning and more tired in the evening, so you fall asleep earlier and can exercise in the morning again. Morning exercise also seems to boost deep sleep more than evening exercise, according to some research. Plus, sleep helps facilitate muscle growth, so you might even see more strength gains if your circadian rhythm and sleep cycle improve. 

    Might burn more fat: Exercising on an empty stomach — in the “fasted state” — is proven to burn more fat than exercising after a meal (in the “fed state”). This happens because your body must utilize fat stores that already exist to fuel exercise, rather than use the food you just ate as fuel. Other research also shows that the “afterburn” lasts longer when you exercise in the morning, which might help you lose weight over time.

    Can make you more productive: Research has found that exercising in the morning has a beneficial effect on energy levels, alertness, focus and decision-making, which can translate to a more productive work day.

    May boost your mood throughout the day: Morning workouts are a great way to start each day on a high note — the endorphins or “happy chemicals” your body produces in response to exercise can keep your mood elevated long past your hour-long workout. The sense of accomplishment you get after completing a workout can also set you up for an optimistic day.

    A person sitting on the edge of a bed and stretching

    You might feel groggy for your morning workout if your alarm wakes you up from deep sleep.

    PhotoAlto/Frederic Cirou/Getty Images

    Downsides to morning workouts

    Although a morning exercise habit can be a powerful part of a healthy lifestyle, early morning workouts have their drawbacks, too. When you exercise first thing in the morning, a few things can make your workout a little wonky. 

    You might be running on low fuel: If you didn’t eat enough the evening before, you might find yourself battling serious hunger mid-workout. If you wake up hungry most days, try eating a larger dinner or a small, protein-dense snack before bed. You can also eat a small, carb-heavy snack before your morning workout, such as a banana, to help avoid hunger and hunger-related fatigue. 

    You may interrupt deep sleep: Depending on your sleep cycle, an early-morning alarm might puncture deep sleep. This can result in sleep inertia (feeling groggy for a while after you wake up), as well as chronic fatigue if it happens often. 

    Physical performance isn’t at its peak: Most people don’t roll out of bed feeling nimble and fired up. You might experience stiffness in your joints and temporary inflexibility. You should loosen up as you warm up, but studies actually show that certain strength markers, including peak power, are higher in the evening.

    It takes longer to warm up: Speaking of warm-ups, there’s a key reason you might not feel as strong or powerful during morning workouts: Your core body temperature is lower. This makes warming up crucial for morning workouts — jumping into a workout, rather than slowly easing in, can result in injury. This is true all of the time, but especially when your body is cooler.Your heart rate is also slower in the morning (that’s the best time to find your true resting heart rate), which also contributes to needing a longer warm-up. 

    Three people running in the dark, surrounded by illuminated mist

    Stanislaw Pytel/Getty Images

    Benefits of afternoon and evening workouts

    I envy those who can fit in a workout between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. That would be my ideal time to exercise if I could do so consistently. I feel more ready for exercise in the afternoon: more flexible, more mobile and more physically energetic. I also feel stronger and faster. 

    For me, those feelings subside around the 5 p.m. mark, but I digress. Most people experience these physiological adaptations throughout the day, which makes the afternoon and evening the best time to exercise for many reasons. 

    Your physical performance might improve: Research shows that most people function better, physically speaking, later in the day. Muscle strength, flexibility, power output and endurance are all better in the evening than they are in the morning. Plus, people who exercise in the evening take up to 20% longer to reach the point of exhaustion.

    Your body gets warmer as the day goes on: Since your core temperature is warmer later in the day, many people can get into the groove faster for afternoon and evening workouts. You should still remember to warm up.

    Hormones are on your side: Testosterone is important for building muscle in men and women, and your body might produce more of it during afternoon workouts than morning workouts, resulting in greater strength and muscle gains.

    Late-day exercise can relieve stress: Exercise is always a good way to relieve stress, but working out at night can really help you blow off some steam. The surge of endorphins you get during and after exercise can be a sweet nightcap that helps you wind down before bed. 

    Might help replace bad habits: If you have some evening or nighttime habits you want to replace — like snacking, drinking, smoking or watching too much TV — allow exercise to swoop in and take their place. Once you get into the practice of exercising at night, you might find yourself surprised that you don’t even miss your old habits. 

    Person doing a yoga pose outdoors with a city in the background

    If you wait until evening to exercise, you might find yourself battling a lack of motivation.

    Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images

    Downsides to afternoon and evening workouts

    The above benefits to afternoon and evening workouts might automatically tempt you to designate the latter part of the day to exercise, but you should consider a couple of potential downsides, too. 

    Might interfere with sleep: The blanket statement that exercising at night is detrimental to sleep is a myth. That’s not true for everyone — scientists have found that exercising at night may have no effects on sleep at all, and some may even get a better night’s sleep — but some people might experience jitters if they work out too close to bedtime. This generally only applies to intense exercise, like CrossFit or HIIT, as yoga, stretching and other gentle exercises can actually improve your sleep when performed before bed.

    May cause problems with consistency: If you’re like many people, exercising at night may not work for you simply because you are too tired after a long day. Afternoon and evening workouts might interfere with daily responsibilities, especially if things tend to pile up during the day. If that sounds like you, try shifting your daily routine to fit in a short morning workout. 



    Source link

  • Find Out the Best Time of Day to Exercise for Your Lifestyle

    Find Out the Best Time of Day to Exercise for Your Lifestyle

    Getting a good workout in several times a week is great for your health, but when is the best time to exercise? Some people love to start their day with a morning workout, while others prefer getting their workout in at nighttime. You will hear conflicting information on whether one is better than the other, but does it actually matter when you work out?

    Regardless of when you find the time to exercise, regularly engaging in physical activity can improve your heart health, make you stronger and even boost your endurance.

    Some research has shown that exercising during specific times can affect the outcome of your workout in different ways. Below is a breakdown on what the research suggests about the time of day you choose to exercise.

    Person tying their shoe. An exercise ball and two small dumbbells are nearby.

    The best time of day to exercise is whenever you can do so consistently.

    Getty Images

    The best time to exercise is whenever you can 

    CNET Health Tips logo


    From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated.

    Let’s get this out of the way first: The best time to work out is whenever you can. We don’t all have schedules that allow for a 90-minute workout, green smoothies with collagen and a 20-minute session with a Theragun, unfortunately. 

    If your only time of day to exercise is before work, then morning is best. If you reserve physical activity for packed evenings, there’s a good chance you won’t ever get to it. 

    Likewise, if you can only fit 20 minutes of exercise into your day right before you get ready for bed, that’s the best time to work out. 

    I want to add a note on consistency: The best time to exercise is whenever you can, but the absolute best time of day to exercise is the time you can stick with for days, weeks and months.

    For example, if you’re the person who only has 20 minutes at night, but you keep finding yourself skipping it, ask yourself if there’s a way you can fit it into your morning instead. Perhaps you go to bed 20 minutes earlier and wake up 20 minutes earlier — now you’re still getting in your 20 minutes of exercise; it’s just shifted your schedule a tad. 

    The fact of the matter is that people who exercise consistently see better weight loss and fitness results in the long term. Research also suggests that your body can adapt to regular training schedules, so if you work out every morning, you will probably get a lot better at working out in the morning, and the same goes for nighttime workouts.

    That all said, morning workouts and night workouts both have their advantages and disadvantages as evidenced by decades of scientific research — let’s discuss.

    Two people run across the street in an urban area

    Thomas Barwick/Getty Images

    From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated.

    Benefits of working out in the morning

    Morning workouts truly do have an edge, according to multiple research studies, and offer a list of benefits that might even sway some night owls to get their fitness on in the morning. 

    Can help you establish a fitness routine: People who exercise in the morning are often more consistent simply because morning workouts leave less room for excuses. If you work out first thing in the morning, you can’t skip it in the evening because duties pile up. 

    May improve your sleep cycle: Waking up early might be difficult at first, but research suggests that a morning exercise habit can shift your circadian rhythm so that your body is naturally more alert in the morning and more tired in the evening, so you fall asleep earlier and can exercise in the morning again. Morning exercise also seems to boost deep sleep more than evening exercise, according to some research. Plus, sleep helps facilitate muscle growth, so you might even see more strength gains if your circadian rhythm and sleep cycle improve. 

    Might burn more fat: Exercising on an empty stomach — in the “fasted state” — is proven to burn more fat than exercising after a meal (in the “fed state”). This happens because your body must utilize fat stores that already exist to fuel exercise, rather than use the food you just ate as fuel. Other research also shows that the “afterburn” lasts longer when you exercise in the morning, which might help you lose weight over time.

    Can make you more productive: Research has found that exercising in the morning has a beneficial effect on energy levels, alertness, focus and decision-making, which can translate to a more productive work day.

    May boost your mood throughout the day: Morning workouts are a great way to start each day on a high note — the endorphins or “happy chemicals” your body produces in response to exercise can keep your mood elevated long past your hour-long workout. The sense of accomplishment you get after completing a workout can also set you up for an optimistic day.

    A person sitting on the edge of a bed and stretching

    You might feel groggy for your morning workout if your alarm wakes you up from deep sleep.

    PhotoAlto/Frederic Cirou/Getty Images

    Downsides to morning workouts

    Although a morning exercise habit can be a powerful part of a healthy lifestyle, early morning workouts have their drawbacks, too. When you exercise first thing in the morning, a few things can make your workout a little wonky. 

    You might be running on low fuel: If you didn’t eat enough the evening before, you might find yourself battling serious hunger mid-workout. If you wake up hungry most days, try eating a larger dinner or a small, protein-dense snack before bed. You can also eat a small, carb-heavy snack before your morning workout, such as a banana, to help avoid hunger and hunger-related fatigue. 

    You may interrupt deep sleep: Depending on your sleep cycle, an early-morning alarm might puncture deep sleep. This can result in sleep inertia (feeling groggy for a while after you wake up), as well as chronic fatigue if it happens often. 

    Physical performance isn’t at its peak: Most people don’t roll out of bed feeling nimble and fired up. You might experience stiffness in your joints and temporary inflexibility. You should loosen up as you warm up, but studies actually show that certain strength markers, including peak power, are higher in the evening.

    It takes longer to warm up: Speaking of warm-ups, there’s a key reason you might not feel as strong or powerful during morning workouts: Your core body temperature is lower. This makes warming up crucial for morning workouts — jumping into a workout, rather than slowly easing in, can result in injury. This is true all of the time, but especially when your body is cooler.Your heart rate is also slower in the morning (that’s the best time to find your true resting heart rate), which also contributes to needing a longer warm-up. 

    Three people running in the dark, surrounded by illuminated mist

    Stanislaw Pytel/Getty Images

    Benefits of afternoon and evening workouts

    I envy those who can fit in a workout between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. That would be my ideal time to exercise if I could do so consistently. I feel more ready for exercise in the afternoon: more flexible, more mobile and more physically energetic. I also feel stronger and faster. 

    For me, those feelings subside around the 5 p.m. mark, but I digress. Most people experience these physiological adaptations throughout the day, which makes the afternoon and evening the best time to exercise for many reasons. 

    Your physical performance might improve: Research shows that most people function better, physically speaking, later in the day. Muscle strength, flexibility, power output and endurance are all better in the evening than they are in the morning. Plus, people who exercise in the evening take up to 20% longer to reach the point of exhaustion.

    Your body gets warmer as the day goes on: Since your core temperature is warmer later in the day, many people can get into the groove faster for afternoon and evening workouts. You should still remember to warm up.

    Hormones are on your side: Testosterone is important for building muscle in men and women, and your body might produce more of it during afternoon workouts than morning workouts, resulting in greater strength and muscle gains.

    Late-day exercise can relieve stress: Exercise is always a good way to relieve stress, but working out at night can really help you blow off some steam. The surge of endorphins you get during and after exercise can be a sweet nightcap that helps you wind down before bed. 

    Might help replace bad habits: If you have some evening or nighttime habits you want to replace — like snacking, drinking, smoking or watching too much TV — allow exercise to swoop in and take their place. Once you get into the practice of exercising at night, you might find yourself surprised that you don’t even miss your old habits. 

    Person doing a yoga pose outdoors with a city in the background

    If you wait until evening to exercise, you might find yourself battling a lack of motivation.

    Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images

    Downsides to afternoon and evening workouts

    The above benefits to afternoon and evening workouts might automatically tempt you to designate the latter part of the day to exercise, but you should consider a couple of potential downsides, too. 

    Might interfere with sleep: The blanket statement that exercising at night is detrimental to sleep is a myth. That’s not true for everyone — scientists have found that exercising at night may have no effects on sleep at all, and some may even get a better night’s sleep — but some people might experience jitters if they work out too close to bedtime. This generally only applies to intense exercise, like CrossFit or HIIT, as yoga, stretching and other gentle exercises can actually improve your sleep when performed before bed.

    May cause problems with consistency: If you’re like many people, exercising at night may not work for you simply because you are too tired after a long day. Afternoon and evening workouts might interfere with daily responsibilities, especially if things tend to pile up during the day. If that sounds like you, try shifting your daily routine to fit in a short morning workout. 



    Source link